Successful closure of the open abdomen utilizing novel technique of dynamic closure system with biologic xenograft

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to demonstrate an alternative option for definitive fascial closure and accelerated wound healing of catastrophic open abdominal wounds utilizing a novel technique combining a mechanical closure system with biologic xenograft. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients who underwent abdominal closure with a dynamic wound closure system with biologic xenograft were analyzed between 2016 and 2017. ABRA® dynamic wound closure system was placed and adjusted daily until fascial closure was achieved. ACeLL® urinary porcine bladder matrix was placed in midline of wound once fascial closure was achieved. Information was abstracted on patient demographics and extent of open abdomen (OA) and postoperative outcomes. RESULTS: Fifty patients underwent novel closure of the OA with mean age of 48.3 years with males comprising 72%. The average body mass index was 35.0. Majority (62%) of OAs were secondary to abdominal sepsis. The average myofascial gap prior to closure of abdomen was 19.0 cm, incision length 28.9 cm, and visceral extrusion 7.7 cm. Prior to installation, the abdomen on average had 3.6 laparotomies and was open for 8.6 days. Primary myofascial closure was achieved in 49/50 (98%) patients; 3/50 (8.3%) developed a hernia. Surgical site infection (SSI) occurred in 4/50 (8%). CONCLUSION: We present a novel technique to achieve primary myofascial closure rate in critically ill patients with OA associated with low hernia rate and SSI.